1. Old Khndzoresk Cave Dwelling

Traveling to the south-east of Armenia, just several km passed Goris, a huge cave dwelling opens up in the midst of a breathtaking canyon. This half human-made and half nature-made wonder is an extremely attractive destination for hikers, culture lovers and adventure seekers. During centuries this cave habitat has been populated by people who managed to establish the biggest village of east Armenia. Its peak of population was reached in the beginning of the 20th century, when 8300 people where living in Old Khndzoresk. Although living with minimum standards, the village had all its necessary facilities, such as shops, schools, tanneries, etc. Nowadays you can walk downwards to the cave village and admire the unique habitats in the area. Just recently a hanging bridge was also made, which connects the two hills of the canyon with each other. The swinging bridge in Old Khndzoresk might be a true thrill for the adventurers as it does not just hang still at its place.

2. Geghard Cave Monastery

We start our Top 7 with two cave destinations and that is not surprising at all. Having such a rocky and mountainous country, the Armenians sought clever ways to use the nature to their own favor. In the case of Geghard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the architects decided to add cave churches to the monastery complex. Entering the 13th century Gavit (narthex) of the monastery, just on your left side you will find the entrances to the cave churches. It is outstanding to see how the masters could keep up the symmetry when hewing the walls of the cave churches. It took about 40 years to cut all the 4 cave structures from solid rock. Although some cracks are visible on the walls of the cave churches, the structures survived numerous earthquakes and testify the masterwork of the architects. A visit to Geghard Monastery is recommended to all kinds of travelers; it has a high culture factor and gives possibilities to hike and climb.

3. Cascade Complex, Yerevan

Art, fun and a beautiful view of Yerevan can all be found in the immense Cascade Complex in Yerevan. The project of making giant staircases connecting the center of Yerevan with one of the suburbs, was initiated in the Soviet period. After a long time pause, the Cascade regained its importance thanks to an American-Armenian businessman Gerard Cafesjian, who also established the Cafesjian Museum of Art. Walking towards the Cascade Complex, you already encounter several world-famous works of contemporary art standing in the open air. Just some meters away, one can also enjoy a coffee, meal or ice-cream in the many open air cafe's with a splendid view on the complex. You can choose to walk up the stairs (if you are in a good condition) and reach the top from where you can have a splendid view over Yerevan and Mt. Ararat. For those who do not enjoy too much physical efforts, there are also escalators leading to the highest point of the Cascade. On the way you can visit the numerous halls where pieces of contemporary art are exhibited.

4. Qarahunj Observatory or Zorats Karer

Travelers who like to follow the footsteps of archaeologists and who find interest in searching for possible theories of a sightseeing, then visiting Qarahunj or Zorats Karer is a must! This mystical site still rises many question marks about its origin and reason of setting up. According to a group of archaeologists and historians this site with 223 stones standing tall was used for religious rituals. Another group of archaeologists and archaeoastronomers claim this place to be an astral observatory. This assumption is being done on the fact that many stones have symmetric holes in them through which people could gaze to the stars and understand in which time of the year they were. Till today it is a mystery for which purpose the stones stand and when they were put there. One thing is sure, a true mystical energy surrounds this place and asks the visitors for quiet meditation and contemplation. And if you are not keen on solving mysteries, the surrounding beautiful landscape will give you all the positive energy you need.

5. Amberd Fortress and Mt. Aragats

A thrill of a lifetime for true mountain climbers and a heaven for hikers and culture lovers, Mt. Aragats with its solemn Amberd Fortress proves to be a splendid travel destination in Armenia. On the way towards the highest peak of Armenia (4090 meters), one can stop at Amberd Fortress which stands at a height of 2,300 meters. The Fortress was built in the 7th century and served as the home of noblemen. Unfortunately, because of many attacks and earthquakes the fortress does not stand intact today, but yet the true strong spirit can still be felt. The area of Amberd Fortress gives the possibility for hikers to have a pleasant walk. During spring-time the place is full of wild flowers. Travel further upwards and you will get near a small lake named Kari. From here climbers can start their climb to one of the four peaks of Aragats according to the experience they have. The Southern peak can be climbed by amateur climbers as well. For the other peaks more experience is necessary.

6. Tatev Monastery

Hidden behind numerous hills and mountains stands one of the wonders of Armenia, Tatev Monastery. The monastery is a favorite destination not only for its architectural beauty, but also for its splendid surrounding landscapes. It certainly looks like a picture from a fairy tail. Before it was quite difficult to reach Tatev Monastery due to the bad road conditions. Fortunately, after the huge Tatev Revival Project not only the roads have been recovered, but also a world record breaking cable car has been established which leads you over the canyons to the outstanding 10th century monastery. Reaching the monastery, you can immediately make an idea of how monks used to live there in the 10th to the 18th centuries. The oil mill, refectory, manuscriptorium, kitchen and other edifices bring you back to the medieval times. Don't miss the 3 meter swinging column at Tatev Monastery, which warned the locals about earthquakes and upcoming attacks.

7. Lake Sevan

The pearl of Armenia, Lake Sevan is truly an attractive travel destination in Armenia for all kinds of tourists. Here you can enjoy a swim, have a hike along the shores, explore the churches near the lake and taste the delicious local fish. Lake Sevan is one of the largest and highest freshwater lakes in the world. You can easily get sun burnt here, because of the heights, so always bring sunscreen with you. Lake Sevan is also a popular travel destination for the locals during Summer. You can find families here at the numerous picnic tables making BBQ and enjoying their weekend. Take the stairs to the hill of the peninsula where two beautiful and modest churches are standing. Just in front of one of the churches many cross-stones greet you with their delicate carvings and symbols. From above the hill, you will have a breathtaking view over Lake Sevan.

Would you like to visit one or several of top destinations given above? Ravina Tours offers several tours which include some or all of our Top 7 destinations! Look now at one of our well-organized tours or contact us for a tailor made tour to Armenia with all the highlights you want to see.

The photos used in the website are owned by Vigen Hakhverdyan, Hayk Melkonyan, David Davtyan, Viken Seropian and Marko Ukkola.